The aim of
this study was to determine the chemical composition, minerals and antioxidants
of heart of date palm from three Saudi cultivars. Moisture (ranged from 80.44% -
82.82%) was the predominant component in the heart date palm. Sukkari cultivar
had the highest protein (5.27%) and ash (7.9%) compared to the other two
cultivars. Fat was low in the three cultivars. Sucrose was the predominant
sugar in the heart date palm and ranged from 7.65% - 20.25%. Potassium was the
predominant mineral in the heart date palm and was significantly (p < 0.05)
higher in Sukkari and Solleg compared to the Naboat Saif cultivar. Sulfur and
chloride were next to potassium in abundance in the three heart date palm
cultivars. Total phenols and flavonoids were higher in Solleg compared to the
other two cultivars. IC50 for Solleg, Sukkari and Naboat Saif were
0.12, 0.13 and 0.29 mg/ml, respectively. The results of the present study may
highlight the potential importance of heart of date palm as a product rich in
essential minerals and antioxidants. Future researches are needed to explore
other characteristics of heart of date palm which could be considered for human
nutrition.